A Maker Space Near You: Ace Monster Toys

Let’s say you want to build a radio-controlled polystyrene airplane or mess around with fabrication robots. It can be messy, noisy, and even a bit dangerous to explore new technologies. The kitchen table is not an option.

AMT at last year's East Bay Mini Maker Faire

Ace Monster Toys is a hackspace in North Oakland. While they have advanced tools and organized classes, they are primarily a place where people come together to share a passion for making things. Members are provided with a workbench and unlimited access to the shop. Rather than being project or class based, the group encourages collaboration, experimentation, and community.

Board member Christian Fernandez, puts it this way. “We have cool stuff, but really it’s about having these interesting, creative people, have them all in the same place at the same time, and see what comes out of that.”

Fernandez recently completed a decidedly low tech project, an Aleut baidarka, or skin boat. Of course he replaced the traditional seal skins with an advanced material. “It’s cool, you can see the waterline from inside the boat.” Other members are hard at work figuring out cool things to do with their new cutting laser.

Visit the Ace Monster Toys booth at the East Bay Mini Maker Faire for more information. If you decide you need more making in your life, they have a bench for you!